President John Mahama has strongly condemned the disturbing practice of employers demanding romantic or sexual relationships from individuals as a condition for securing employment, describing it as entirely unacceptable and something that must be eradicated from society.
He emphasized that such behavior is a gross abuse of power and a violation of basic human dignity, particularly affecting young people and vulnerable job seekers who may feel pressured into compromising situations due to economic hardship or desperation for work.
According to him, the workplace should be a space built on merit, professionalism, and fairness not exploitation or coercion.
He stressed that no individual should ever be forced to trade their personal values, body, or emotional well-being in exchange for an opportunity to earn a living.
President Mahama highlighted that this unethical practice not only undermines trust in institutions but also perpetuates inequality and injustice within the labor market.
He further called on organizations, both public and private, to implement stricter policies and accountability measures that protect job applicants and employees from such misconduct.
Employers who engage in or tolerate these actions, he noted, must be held fully responsible under the law.
He also encouraged victims to speak up and report incidents without fear of stigma or retaliation, assuring that their voices are essential in driving meaningful change.
In addition, he urged relevant authorities to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure that perpetrators face appropriate consequences.
By addressing this issue decisively, President Mahama believes society can move closer to creating a safer, more ethical work environment where opportunities are based solely on competence, qualifications, and integrity rather than exploitation or abuse of power.